Lyon

Lyon is such a romantic city with its stunning architecture, delicious food, and vibrant culture. Here’s a delightful 2-day itinerary for you and your girlfriend to make the most of your time together in this beautiful city.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Lyon

Morning: Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)

• Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café in Vieux Lyon. Try a traditional “café au lait” and a buttery croissant or a “tarte aux pralines” for a sweet treat!
• After breakfast, take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon. Don’t miss the stunning Renaissance architecture and the famous traboules (hidden passageways). You can even take a guided tour to learn more about the history!

Midday: Lunch at a Bouchon

• For lunch, head to a traditional bouchon, like “Le Café des Fédérations” or “La Meunière.” Indulge in local specialties like quenelles, coq au vin, or a hearty Lyonnaise salad. The atmosphere is cozy and perfect for a romantic meal.

Afternoon: Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

• After lunch, make your way up to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. You can either hike up the hill or take the funicular for a more leisurely ascent. The basilica itself is stunning, and the panoramic views of the city from the terrace are breathtaking—perfect for some couple photos!

Evening: Dinner and a Stroll Along the Rhône

• For dinner, treat yourselves to a meal at “Les Terrasses de Lyon” or “Le Sud,” where you can enjoy exquisite French cuisine with a view.
• After dinner, take a romantic stroll along the Rhône River. The riverside is beautifully lit at night, and you can enjoy the ambiance while chatting and soaking in the atmosphere.

Day 2: Culture and Culinary Delights

Morning: Parc de la Tête d'Or

• Start your day with a visit to Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of the largest urban parks in France. Enjoy a leisurely walk, rent a bike, or even have a picnic by the lake. There’s a lovely botanical garden and a small zoo to explore as well!

Midday: Lunch in the Croix-Rousse District

• Head to the Croix-Rousse district for lunch. This area is known for its bohemian vibe and artistic flair. Grab a bite at “Le Café du Peintre” or “La Canute,” where you can enjoy some local dishes in a relaxed setting.

Afternoon: Museum of Fine Arts

• After lunch, visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, which houses an impressive collection of art from ancient times to the modern era. The museum is located in a beautiful former abbey, and you can spend a couple of hours wandering through the galleries.

Evening: Cooking Class or Wine Tasting

• For a unique experience, consider booking a cooking class together where you can learn to make traditional Lyonnaise dishes. Alternatively, you could go for a wine tasting experience at a local wine bar, like “Les Fines Gueules,” where you can sample some fantastic French wines.
• End your day with a romantic dinner at “L’Ourson Qui Boit” or “Le Bouchon des Filles,” where you can savor more of Lyon’s culinary delights.

Tips:

• Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and enjoy each other’s company!
• Lyon is known for its gastronomy, so be sure to indulge in as many local specialties as you can.
• If you have time, consider checking out a local market, like the Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, for some gourmet treats.

I hope you both have an amazing time in Lyon! It’s a city that’s sure to create beautiful memories for you both. Enjoy! 🌹✨